Oncology

Oncology & Chemotherapy

While no pet owner wants to hear a cancer diagnosis, the good news is that treatment options are available. At Gardner Animal Hospital, we deliver compassionate care and advanced treatments to help ensure the best possible outcomes for your pet. We are also one of the few non-specialty veterinary practices in the Kansas City area to offer pet oncology and chemotherapy in-house.

How Do Pet Oncology Services Work?

At Gardner Animal Hospital, we have the advanced equipment and expertise to diagnose and treat your pet. We begin with an oncology consultation to evaluate your pet’s cancer and discuss treatment options. In some cases, we may recommend radiation therapy. If that’s an option you decide to pursue, we can refer you to an radiation specialist.

Your pet’s prognosis, treatment options and response to treatment will depend on the type of cancer they have and how advanced it is.

What is Pet Chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy can be used to treat cancer in pets. It works by destroying cancer cells in the body with chemical agents. Chemotherapy is typically administered to pets through an injection or in pill form. The number of chemotherapy treatments your pet will need depends on the type of cancer and responsiveness to the treatments.

Chemotherapy is usually delivered on an outpatient basis, meaning your pet can go home after treatment. Most pets experience little to no side effects from chemotherapy. Any side effects that do arise can typically be solved with dosage and schedule adjustments.

How to Care for a Dog or Cat with Cancer

If you’re caring for a pet with cancer, you want to give them a good quality of life throughout the treatment process. Sticking to their normal routine as much as possible is a great way to help them stay happy and healthy.

Taking steps to make your home more accessible to your pet can also be beneficial. Simple adjustments like moving food and water closer to their resting place and ensuring they have comfortable bedding can go a long way in making your pet comfortable.

It is important to consult with your vet about the best care options.

New Diagnostic Tests Available at Gardner Animal Hospital Include:

• Blood Cancer Detection Tests:
  Our veterinary hospital offers comprehensive blood cancer detection tests for pets. Our skilled team utilizes advanced diagnostic techniques to identify various types of blood cancers in animals. These tests enable early detection and prompt treatment, leading to improved outcomes for our furry patients.
• Autologous and Immunotherapeutic Cancer Vaccines:
  We are proud to have access to cancer vaccines, such as Elias and Oncept, for canines diagnosed with cancer. These groundbreaking vaccines are customized to each individual pet, harnessing their own immune system to fight against cancer cells. Our veterinary experts carefully administer these vaccines, offering a tailored approach to cancer treatment.
• DNA Sequencing and Targeted Drug Therapy:
  We are able to collaborate with Veterinary Clinical Pathologists who specialize in DNA sequencing and perform precise genetic analysis for pets diagnosed with cancer. This analysis allows us to identify specific genetic mutations and abnormalities driving cancer growth. By leveraging this information, we create targeted treatment protocols that specifically address the genetic characteristics of the disease, leading to more effective and personalized treatment outcomes.
• Surgery:
  We offer a wide range of surgical procedures to treat cancer in pets. Our experienced surgical team employs state-of-the-art techniques and equipment to perform tumor removal surgeries, excisions, and other necessary procedures. We prioritize the comfort and safety of our patients throughout the surgical process.

At Gardner Animal Hospital, we are dedicated to offering comprehensive and advanced treatment options for cancer in pets. Whether it’s through diagnostic tests, personalized vaccines, DNA sequencing or surgery we strive to provide the highest quality of care for your beloved companions.

Contact Gardner Animal Hospital Pet Oncology Services

If your pet needs cancer care, get in touch with us today. We offer a range of oncology services to treat various types of cancer in pets. Although we are not specialists, your pet can benefit from receiving treatment in a familiar environment. We can also refer you to a specialist if desired.